Skin Cancer Overview

Skin cancer can be a scary diagnosis, but having spots on the face that need to be removed can make patients worry about unattractive or disfiguring results. For many years, Mohs surgery has been the gold standard in treatment for skin cancer thanks to its low recurrence rates and minimal scarring. At Inside Look MD of Chicago, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Paresi is highly skilled in performing Mohs surgery on the face along with skin reconstruction so his patients in Downers Grove, Illinois have their skin cancer removed without unnecessary damage or scarring to their skin. As a plastic surgeon, Dr. Paresi is not only interested in removing the skin cancer with Mohs surgery, but also considering the patient's appearance after the surgery.

Skin Cancer Reviews

"Dr. Paresi and his staff are awesome! Everyone in the office is very professional and friendly. I had skin cancer removed from my nose which left a scar. Dr. Paresi fixed the scar from the surgery and it healed up quickly. You can’t even tell I had surgery in that area. This was my 2nd procedure done with Dr. Paresi and both times I was completely satisfied. He is the best plastic surgeon. I would recommend him to all my friends and family. I will definitely be going back for my next procedure."

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Skin Cancer Surgery Technique

Mohs surgery can be time-consuming since thin layers of the growth are removed, then examined under a microscope before a new layer is taken. This prevents unnecessary damage and removal, which makes the final result more attractive. Thin layers will continue to be taken and examined until the layer is cancer-free. Reconstruction can often be performed the same day or the day after the removal procedure. Reconstructive procedures are performed on an individualized basis, depending on each patient's wound, and can involve a skin graft, flap of skin, stitching or surgical closure. Our doctor will discuss the various options with the patient and together they will choose the best method or methods of treatment. Following that, we will work with the doctor performing the patient’s skin cancer removal to perform reconstruction either immediately after the removal or later if the patient chooses.

Skin Cancer During/After Surgery

Patients may be put under local or general anesthesia depending on the location and size of the area being treated. Once the skin cancer lesion is removed, reconstruction is done using the techniques decided on during the initial consultation. Once the reconstruction is completed, the surgeon will close and dress the wound before the patient is allowed to leave. Following that, every patient will receive post surgical instructions, including how to care for the surgical wound, what topical medications to apply, and other tips to help with the patient's recovery. Avoiding sun exposure and using sun protection will help the wound heal quicker and without irregularities, like raised, red, or darker skin. It may take up to one year for patients to see the final results of their skin cancer reconstruction. If needed, our staff will discuss a secondary surgery to further refine the results.

Plan Your Procedure

Skin Reconstruction FAQs

Will There Be Scars?

While doctors do their best to keep their incisions small and the wound closures clean and neat, there will be some degree of scarring. Scarring can be minimized by following any post surgical wound care instructions. You can also elect to have surgical scar revision if you would like to further reduce the visibility of the scarring.

Why A Plastic Surgeon?

Even if a dermatologist removes the skin cancer growth, it is beneficial for patients to have a plastic surgeon performing the wound closure and/or skin reconstruction. Plastic surgeons are specially trained to preserve the appearance of the skin and they are more practiced at closing incisions cleanly and evenly.

When To Have Reconstruction?

It is best if patients make an appointment before their skin cancer removal so she can consult and coordinate with the doctor and facility performing the skin cancer removal. Patients may chose to have their skin reconstruction performed right after their removal surgery or they can wait to see how the wound will heal naturally. During the initial consultation, the doctor will listen to the needs and concerns of the patient and then help them determine their best timeline and treatment plan.